First up in a series of interviews with women in the horror industry is Destinie Orndoff – someone I’ve followed for years on social media, drooled over her collection, and watched excitedly as her career in horror began. A creative, driven girl with a passion for horror that I relate to a lot myself, and a collection that anyone would envy, she’s the perfect first interview to have up!

So, what got you into horror?

Destinie: I’ve been into the genre since I was a young kid, my first memories start around 5 years old, that’s when I first watched the original A Nightmare on Elm Street. I’m not really sure what technically got me into the horror genre, I just remember absolutely loving it and renting as many horror films as I could every time I’d get the opportunity to go to Blockbuster or Hollywood Video.

What are some of your favorite horror films?

The original A Nightmare on Elm Street is my favorite horror film of all time! I’m also morbidly obsessed with the original Exorcist and Shining, also ANYTHING Rob Zombie. I’m obsessed with all of his films. I also have a huuuge soft spot for Freddy VS Jason and Seed of Chucky. FVJ was actually my first horror film in a movie theater, ever. I was 6 and absolutely LOVED every moment!

You have such an impressive collection! How long have you been collecting What? What are some of your favorites?

Thank you!! I’ve been collecting horror stuff since I was a kid. My earliest memories are browsing huge flea markets in Charleston, SC with my mom. They had this one booth with nothing but horror figures. Movie Maniacs’, Cinema of Fear, Mezco, Neca, you name it! Spencer’s and Hot Topic was also a huge hot spot for me as a young kid. They used to have the most epic horror figures and releases. Some favorite pieces in my collection would be my House of 1000 Corpses and Devil’s Rejects box sets, my Freddy VS Jason Bobble-heads, and everything Freddy, haha.

When you think of women in the horror industry – anyone from writers, directors, actresses, etc – who immediately comes to mind? What other women inspire you?

The main woman that inspires me in the film industry would be Rose McGowan. There have been so many times on set where I’m asking myself what would Rose do. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s 100% true. 

Who are some of your favorite female characters in horror – from final girls to the girls behind the gore?

Nancy Thompson. My ultimate idol and inspiration since I was a young girl. “I take back every bit of energy I gave you. You’re nothing, you’re shit.” Quoting that 20 years later still makes me tear up. 

What inspired you to get into the industry yourself?

My obsessive love and passion for horror is what ultimately pushed me to get into the filmmaking industry. Since elementary school, I’ve been writing horror stories so I’ve always had that love for storytelling. 

I’ve seen you in Red Eye, as well as Sin and Used. How involved beyond just acting were you with those projects?

I’ve written and produced all of the projects under Deranged Minds so I was super involved behind the scenes! Balancing my character performance as well as what is overall coming across the screen is a challenge, but a fun one! 

What else do you have in the works with Deranged Minds Entertainment?

We have our second feature film, “Inverted” releasing this year! Starring myself, Maria Olsen, and Suze-Lanier Bramlett. “Inverted” is a period piece based in the 1970s where an off-the-grid satanic cult begins to reek havoc upon the return of Jesus Christ. 

Any sort of advice for other girls that love horror, or any others wanting to get into the industry?

Do not let anyone tell you that you are any less than your worth because you have a love for something that isn’t “normalized” by society. You are unique, you are beautiful, you are incredible, you are worthy of everything. For the girls looking to get into filmmaking, my first piece of advice is trust no one. Trust yourself, your judgements, and your gut. Also, never give up or let anyone tell you that you shouldn’t be trying. If you’re truly passionate about something, nothing will hold you back from achieving it.

Anything else you’d like to mention? Projects, etc?

Thank you so much for asking me to be apart of an incredible article for an incredible month of celebration for Women in Horror! If you would like to keep updated on my projects you can follow Deranged Minds Entertainment on Facebook and Instagram! Or, if you’d like to see a peek into my daily watches and collection you can find me on Instagram at LivingDeadGirl_97!

Thank you again to Destinie for being a part of my Women in Horror Month coverage this year! Be sure to check out Destinie’s page as well as Deranged Minds Entertainment! All above images were from her Instagram as well as Deranged Minds Entertainment.

-Angel